Educational Foundation of Lake County

The Educational Foundation of Lake County, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) that serves as the direct support organization for the Lake County Public School District. The foundation is autonomous from the school district and partners with the district to provide programs and services for all teachers and students in k-12. All proceeds from the Faire benefit the teachers and students in the Lake County Public Schools.

Formed in 1988, the foundation is managed by a voluntary board of community leaders. In keeping with state statute 1001.453, board members are approved by the school board and a certified audit is presented to the district on a yearly bases.

The board employs an executive director to handle the day to day operations. The foundation is a member of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations and is funded by state matching dollars, the sale of license plates, grants and private and corporate donors. The foundation’s mission is to promote excellence in education.

The Lake County Educational Foundation provides the following support to teachers and students in Lake County:

Apple Mart: 2,200 sq. ft. of retail space where teachers can shop for free. It is jammed packed with teacher and student supplies, furniture and clothing.

A Back to School Fair which serves over 3,000 students on or below poverty level, grades K-5. Each student receives a backpack and grade appropriate supplies valued at $55. Social providers partner at the fair to offer services such as eyeglasses and dental care.

Grants for Great Ideas funds teacher grants up to $500 for innovative teaching approaches to high risk, low performing students. Lake County receives $33,000 in state matching dollars for this program.

Take Stock is a 2+2 scholarship Program that serves low income students. Children are identified in the 8th grade and contract for the scholarship. Individual mentors are assigned to follow the children and performance is tracked. The Program has awarded 540 scholarships.

Teacher of the Year and 11 other recognition events are hosted by the foundation each year. The foundation serves as the district coordinator for the Department of Education and follows state guidelines for the recognition events and awards.